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Ryan Roberts Designated

The Rays have designated Ryan Roberts for assignment, thus allowing Alex Cobb to return to the 25- and 40-man rosters before he starts tonight’s game.

Roberts was acquired last July from the Diamondbacks in exchange for Tyler Bortnick. He appeared in 120 games for the Rays and hit .229/.289/.370 while playing various infield positions. Because Roberts has been outrighed in the past, he can elect free agency if he clears waivers. Otherwise he stands to become a free agent at season’s end unless he’s re-added to the 40-man roster.

This also means Jason Bourgeois, who we anticipated getting the heave-ho, will survive for at least a few more days.